Contrary to popular belief, many families living below the poverty line are looking for a hand up in this life, not a handout. Every day, I meet hardworking and determined individuals facing incredible challenges and often find that the smallest intervention on their behalf would make a world of difference.
While this may not be your reality, or the story of abundance we see so often on social media, many of our neighbors in the greater Tallahassee area are suffering in silence. Compounding this challenge, so many families who need support are filled with pride and don’t want to apply for government benefits, they want to learn and be able to provide for themselves - that’s the American Dream after all.
Addressing this nuanced challenge is our core mission at The Figgers Foundation through the “Figgers Florida Families Initiative.” We believe that providing direct charitable relief, without a lengthy application or verification process, helps families get out of survival mode. Then we provide them with the tools needed to achieve their long-term goals, and I believe that bridging the digital divide is the most powerful way to empower individuals in the long run.
I believe in this mission, because it is also my own personal story. As a baby, I was abandoned by the woman that birthed me, but by the grace of God, was adopted by an older couple that raised me as their own son. We lived humbly in Quincy, Florida, but we were rich in the ways that matter most. My parents also fostered my love of electronics, helping me channel my God-given talents into a career that allows me to give back to the community I love.
Although technology feels ubiquitous in our world, so many of our neighbors still lack access to the basic connectivity, devices, and technology skills they need to be successful. Improving the digital divide improves access to quality education and workforce development programs and resources and teaches students of all ages how to utilize tools, including AI.
We are proudly collaborating with the state to expand access to broadband and connectivity for communities living in broadband deserts and providing devices such as laptops and cellphones. In December 2025, we announced the launch of a new program allowing eligible Floridians, including in Gadsden, Jefferson, Madison and Taylor counties, the opportunity to apply for free devices, three years of internet service, and 4G LTE cell service.
We know there are more families in need of help, and we are here for them. In recent months, I have been personally contacted by several local families and seniors in Leon and Gadsden counties in need of support and have intervened directly to help them get back on their feet - from helping buy groceries, providing gas gift cards, or helping cover the costs of auto or hour repairs. Many of these families wish to remain anonymous and do not want their hardships on display.
Bridging the digital divide and performing small acts of kindness are the force multipliers needed in our community to help get folks back on their feet.
Visit FiggersFoundation.org to learn how you can join us to serve our Tallahassee area communities or seek assistance from us directly. We are still accepting applications at the following webpage: https://figgersfoundation.org/floridaconnect.
Freddie Figgers, a Quincy, Florida native, is board chair of The Figgers Foundation, a statewide organization headquartered in Broward County. He is also the Founder of Figgers Communication, an independent, FCC-regulated telecommunications company.